Insurance Q. Bike or money

What's the score here.
My bike was a custom build, and the cost of a replacent of a similar spec bike would be 3k
Thing is I don't want something that was like mine, I want to build one up the same.
Do I have a say in this.
The reason I ask is you seem to see people selling off insurance replacements.
I just want to be where I was before I got hit, not too much to ask is it?

You haz receipts? If not, get a quote for an exact replacement and use that. Insurers should give you cash so you can buy and build what you had before.

It depends on your insurers though. Get out your loupe.

I'm in a similar situation - though my bike hasn't been stolen, i just want some insurance for it. I bought a frame from an LBS, and then proceeded to merrily beg, borrow and buy the parts from all over the show (ebay, mates, strangers and anyone who had such shiny things for sale) so other than the receipt for the frame i've no evidence that i bought it.

"the original purchase receipt, showing the date, price paid, details of the Bicycle and Approved Lock, name and address of seller, or other evidence which clearly demonstrates ownership." is one example of whats asked for. and putting it on my home insurance isnt an option as i'm a student and cant have home insurance in the usual sense (and endsleigh point blank refused to insure my "custom bike"

p.s. HELP! (please)

Go to a reputable bike shop, preferably when they are not too busy, and ask them to cost up a like for like replacement. Get a couple if you want, and use these to give to the insurers